Color Misregistration Correction in Image Forming Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing image forming apparatuses face challenges in accurately correcting color misregistration, especially when handling thick paper, as they often rely on conventional methods that are not effective in preventing color misregistration during the electrophotographic printing process.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus equipped with a hardware processor that determines a measurement method to assess color misregistration on a sheet and adjusts the image formation process using a chart with specific patterns to correct color misregistration, including a first pattern formed by a primary color and a second pattern by a chromatic color, positioned upstream or downstream of the primary pattern in the sheet conveyance direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional image forming methods are used for thick paper, then printing can be performed, but color misregistration occurs in the paper feeding direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by forming a chart with specific patterns (first pattern with primary color, second pattern with chromatic color) before actual printing. This chart is used to measure color misregistration in advance, allowing the conveyance speeds to be adjusted beforehand to prevent color misregistration during the actual printing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the color misregistration amount using the formed chart and using this measurement information to adjust the conveyance speeds of the sheet at the transfer nip part and fixing nip part. This closed-loop approach ensures continuous improvement of color registration accuracy.
2Extent of automation
If in-line image reading device or in-line color information detection device is included, then image formation adjustments can be performed automatically, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the image forming apparatus to perform automatic adjustments using a chart that is formed and measured within the apparatus itself. The apparatus uses its own resources (image forming section, conveyance mechanism) to create and measure the chart, eliminating the need for external in-line detection devices while maintaining automation capability.
3Device complexity
If visual observation or external colorimetry is used for adjustments, then apparatus configuration can be simplified, but measurement precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes color changes by incorporating a second pattern with chromatic color (different from the primary color) in the chart. This chromatic color pattern enables precise measurement of color misregistration through optical detection, providing accurate measurement data while keeping the apparatus configuration relatively simple.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus including: an image former that forms an image in a plurality of colors on a sheet by an intermediate transfer method; and a hardware processor that determines a measurement method to measure a color misregistration amount at a predetermined position on a surface of the sheet on which the image is formed by the image former, wherein the hardware processor determines, based on the determined measurement method, content of a chart to correct at least the color misregistration within the surface of the sheet.